10 Tips for a Smooth Move from Professional Movers

Start Early

The earlier you begin planning your move, the better. This gives you enough time to clean up your home, research moving companies and resolve any open issues at work or school. Plus, it's one less source of stress!

Get Rid of Everything You Don't Need

A move is a great opportunity to get rid of things you no longer use. Clear out your wardrobe, go through kitchen cabinets and dispose of anything that has taken up space for too long. This not only makes packing easier but also saves money on the move.

Research Your Moving Options

Not all moving companies are the same! Make sure you research and choose a reliable company that offers the services you need at an affordable price. Ask for recommendations or read online reviews to understand which companies are worth considering.

Book Vehicle Transportation in Advance

One of the most stressful parts of a move is transporting your car. To avoid hassle and costs associated with driving it yourself, consider shipping your vehicle ahead of time. Many professional movers offer this service or you can find companies that specialize in car transport.

Get Quotes from Multiple Companies

Once you've narrowed down your list of moving and vehicle transport companies, get quotes from each to compare prices. Don’t forget to ask about additional fees so you don't encounter surprises later. Check reviews and ask friends and family for recommendations on these services.

Prepare Your Movers

When hiring movers, prepare them for everything they’ll encounter in your home. This means labeling boxes with fragile items, packing all valuable belongings and important documents securely, as well as cleaning the house before movers arrive.

Keep Track of Documents

Moving can be a stressful time, so it's important to keep track of all necessary documents. This includes registering and licensing in your new state, changing addresses for bills and financial institutions, as well as car insurance information.

Prepare Your Pets

Moving can be stressful for both you and your pets. Therefore, take steps to make the process comfortable for them. This may include consulting with your pet about the upcoming move, taking them to a familiar veterinarian for a final check-up, and arranging care during the transition.

Hire Professionals If Possible

While doing the move yourself may save money, it also requires much more effort than most people imagine. If your budget allows, consider hiring professionals to handle the heavy lifting (literally). This will make your move much less stressful — and could even be cheaper in the long run if you avoid damaging your belongings!

Package Smartly and Efficiently

Efficient packaging is key to a smooth move — and avoiding injuries! Make sure heavy items go into small boxes, while light ones are packed in larger ones. This makes them easier to carry and prevents falls. Fragile items should be carefully wrapped in bubble wrap or packing paper, and each box labeled with its contents and destination room in your new home to make unpacking simple. Speaking of unpacking...

Unpack Boxes as Soon as Possible... Kind Of

It can be tempting to leave all boxes standing in a corner until you find time to unpack them, but this is usually not the best idea — it just makes things more cluttered when you finally get around to doing so!

Try unpacking at least the main items within 24 hours of arriving in your new place so you can start feeling comfortable right away; then gradually unpack the rest over the next week or two. (You can even leave some items packed if that helps clear out your new space!)

Ask Friends and Family for Help — Especially if They Live Nearby

Even if they can’t help on the actual moving day, they might assist with small tasks such as packing boxes or buying last-minute items. If you have the chance to meet new people before officially moving, you might find friends who can help after arrival.

Have Cash on Hand for Movers’ Tips (If Applicable)

While tips are never required, they’re always greatly appreciated by hardworking movers. It’s easy to forget how much effort goes into moving your belongings from an old home to a new one. Tips are especially valued if they had to carry your stuff up multiple flights of stairs.

Update Your Address with All Relevant Parties

Don’t forget about companies like banks, doctors, friends and family! You’ll need to know when it's time to find a new place to live. You can easily update information at the post office and DMV online.

That’s all! Just follow these ten tips from professional movers, and your move will start off great. A successful move doesn’t have to be complicated — ask the professionals! By following these ten tips from real movers, you can be confident that your move will start smoothly. What tip would you add? Comment below! Happy moving!